Princeton

Princeton is a municipality in Mercer County, New Jersey, marked by gentle hills and tree-lined residential streets. The architecture combines colonial-era structures with newer neighborhoods, while the university with its stone buildings and courtyards forms the heart of the townscape.

The settlement emerged in the 18th century as a small community along the post road between New York and Philadelphia, with the university opening its doors in 1746. In 2013, the previously separate borough and township merged into a single municipality, ending an administrative division that had lasted over 200 years.

The town carries its name in honor of the Prince of Orange from the 17th century, a connection that remains visible today in various street names and local references. The university campus shapes much of the cityscape with Gothic sandstone buildings and wide lawns where students and residents gather on warm days to study or converse.

The location between two major cities makes the town easily accessible by car via Interstate 95 or by regional train. The central area around Nassau Street is best explored on foot, while the outer neighborhoods are most comfortable to reach by bicycle or car.

The Battle of Princeton in 1777 actually took place several kilometers south of today's town center, on fields that remain partially preserved. A small cemetery near the campus holds graves from the 18th century, including soldiers of the Continental Army.

Location: Mercer County

Inception: 17 century

Elevation above the sea: 58 m

Shares border with: Lawrence Township, Hopewell Township, Montgomery Township, West Windsor Township, Plainsboro Township, Franklin Township, South Brunswick

Website: https://princetonnj.gov

GPS coordinates: 40.34970,-74.65974

Latest update: December 4, 2025 14:20